JCR-VIS reaffirms entity ratings
of Matco Rice Processing at A-/A-2
December 31, 2014
JCR-VIS Credit Rating Company Limited (JCR-VIS) has reaffirmed the
entity ratings of Pakistan's largest basmati rice exporter, Matco Rice
Processing (Pvt) Limited, at "A-/A-2" (Single A-Minus/ A-Two) with
stable outlook. Despite being a highly competitive market with numerous
international rice brands, rice exports from Pakistan increased by 3.3 percent
in FY14 to US 1.9 billion dollars. Matco
was able to capture a larger share of the same as the company's exports
increased by 25 percent in FY14.
Growth in exports has been achieved due to increased sale of
basmati rice which fetched a better price in the international market compared
to IRRI. Sharing his thought on
the rating, Chairman Matco Rice, Jawed Ali Ghori said, "This rating is yet
another testament of our market leading product quality and reflects upon the
trust of our valued customers. Our management has projected increased margins
and overall profitability in the long-run and relishes the current entity
rating of A-/A-2 by JCR-VIS with an aim to further enhance it in the years to
come." He further added that
"Matco Rice is constantly striving to increase the quality of products by
applying international standards and strengthening rice procurement
procedures.-PR
KBP seeks immediate compensation
for basmati growers
December
31, 2014
Kisan Board Pakistan (KBP) has urged the Prime Minister Nawaz
Sharif to ensure immediate implementation on a relief package announced by him
to compensate the rice growers at the rate of Rs 5,000 per acres. KBP Central
President Sadiq Khan Khakwani made this demand during a meeting of a delegation
of Basmati growers here on Tuesday. The growers expressed their reservations
over government attitude and non-implementation of the premier's announcement. KBP Chief demanded that the farmers
who suffered losses because of recent floods should be compensated at the
earliest.
He said that unrest is being found amongst basmati growers due to
non-implementation of the package. He said in response to a countrywide protest
staged by the rice growers, the Prime Minister had directed the Federal Finance
Minister and Minister for Food Security to compensate growers and approved
necessary funds. However, KBP Chief regretted, no method has been evolved in
this regard which is a question mark on functioning of these departments. He reiterated
that the government should take immediate steps to resolve the issues and
compensate the loss suffered by Basmati growers.
Amira Group ties up with
Onekirana.com; Global food giant further expands its online presence in India
Section: Other Briefs Category: Corporate
Company Brief
New Delhi, December30, 2014
Amira Pure Foods Private Limited, Indian subsidiary of Amira Nature Foods Ltd., an NYSE listed global specialty food company, has further expanded its market in the online space in India by announcing its tie-up with onekirana.com, a leading online grocery retailer, focused towards the Delhi-NCR region. Under the partnership, Amira’s premium Basmati range will be available on onekirana.com. Speaking about the partnership, Mr. Karana A Chanana, Chairman and CEO, Amira Group said, “We are pleased to announce our partnership with Onekirana.com. Online retailing has become one of the important sales channels for consumer brands these days and this partnership marks Amira’s further expansion into the online segment.
We are
confident that this tie-up will be beneficial for both the companies.”Over the
last three years, Onekirana.com has emerged as one of the leading online
grocery shopping destinations for consumers in Delhi-NCR. “Onekirana.com’s
widespread network of thousands of local stores in Delhi-NCR will further help
us to provide our products to more consumers in the most convenient and
time-saving manner” added Mr. Chanana.Commenting on this development, Megha
Singh, Director-Sales, Onekirana.com said, “This association with Amira, a
globally recognized leader in the Premium Basmati segment, is an important
addition to our fast expanding business. This tie-up will help us cater to
those of our customers who look for Premium and Quality food products.”
Amira will be offering its wide range of Basmati rice products on Onekirana.com which includes:
Amira Extra Long Grain Basmati Rice
Amira Traditional Basmati Rice
Amira Guru Extra Long Grain Basmati Rice
Amira Goodlength Everyday Basmati Rice
Amira Goodlength Day To Day Basmati Rice
Amira Group, one of the largest exporters of Basmati rice from India, has been strengthening its brand portfolio in India. Under its expansion strategy in online retailing, the company had recently announced its tie-up with Snapdeal.com, becoming the 1st rice brand to be available online at a pan-India level.
For further information, please contact:
Pooja Chauhan
Email: pooja@blackpenlcc.com
Mobile:+91 9971627588
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Punjab, Iran
identify two projects for mutual collaboration
Agriculture sector cooperation in
areas of transfer of breeding material for floriculture, transfer of technology
for production of medicinal plant, assistance for development of Potohar region
as it has same characteristics as of most areas of Iran also came under
discussion.The meeting participants highlighted key aspects of Iran’s economy
including exports and imports.
KBP seeks
immediate compensation for basmati growers
DECEMBER 31, 2014 6:35
December 31, 2014 – BR
Report
Kisan Board Pakistan (KBP)
has urged the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to ensure immediate implementation on
a relief package announced by him to compensate the rice growers at the rate of
Rs 5,000 per acres. KBP Central President Sadiq Khan Khakwani made this demand
during a meeting of a delegation of Basmati growers here on Tuesday. The
growers expressed their reservations over government attitude and
non-implementation of the premier’s announcement.
KBP Chief demanded that the farmers who suffered losses
because of recent floods should be compensated at the earliest. He said that
unrest is being found amongst basmati growers due to non-implementation of
thepackage. He said in response to a countrywide protest staged by the rice
growers, the Prime Minister had directed the Federal Finance Minister and
Minister for Food Security to compensate growers and approved necessary funds.
However, KBP Chief regretted, no method has been evolved in this regard which
is a question mark on functioning of these departments. He reiterated that the
government should take immediate steps to resolve the issues and compensate the
loss suffered by Basmati growers.
The post KBP seeks immediate compensation for basmati
growers appeared first on Future of Agriculture in Pakistan, Information about
Agriculture, Pakistan Agriculture, Agriculture in Pakistan, Role of
Agriculture, Agriculture in Pakistan Urdu, Pakistan Agricultural Research,
Agriculture Statistics, Agriculture Constitutes, Agriculture News, Videos,
Weather, Farming, Biotechnology, Livstock, Jobs & Scholarships, Agriculture
Universities.
http://pakistan.worldnewsviews.com/2014/12/31/kbp-seeks-immediate-compensation-for-basmati-growers/
Nagpur Foodgrain Prices Open- Dec
31
Wed Dec 31, 2014 7:03pm IST
Nagpur, Dec 31 (Reuters) - Gram prices
reported higher in Nagpur Agriculture Produce and
Marketing Committee (APMC)
on increased marriage season demand from local millers amid thin arrival from
producing belts. Freshs rise in Madhya Pradesh gram prices and enquiries from
South-based millers also
pushed up prices, according to sources.
* * * *
FOODGRAINS & PULSES
GRAM
* Desi gram raw zoomed up again in open
market on good marriage season demand
from local traders amid tight supply from
producing regions.
TUAR
* Tuar gavarani recovered nominally in open
market on renewed demand from local
traders amid weak supply from producing
regions.
* Moong and udid varieties touched to a
record high in open market on increased
seasonal demand from local traders amid
tight supply from producing regions. Weak
production reports also activated
stockists.
* In Akola, Tuar - 4,700-4,900, Tuar dal -
7,100-7,400, Udid at 6,700-6,900,
Udid Mogar (clean) - 7,500-7,700, Moong -
7,800-8,000, Moong Mogar
(clean) 9,700-10,100, Gram - 2,500-2,700,
Gram Super best bold - 3,600-3,900
for 100 kg.
* Wheat, rice and other commodities remained
steady in open market
in thin trading activity, according to
sources.
Nagpur foodgrains APMC auction/open-market
prices in rupees for 100 kg
FOODGRAINS Available prices Previous close
Gram Auction 2,900-3,400 2,870-3,350
Gram Pink Auction n.a. 2,100-2,600
Tuar Auction n.a. 4,000-4,200
Moong Auction n.a. 6,200-6,400
Udid Auction n.a. 4,300-4,500
Masoor Auction n.a. 2,600-2,800
Gram Super Best Bold 4,150-4,300 4,150-4,300
Gram Super Best n.a.
Gram Medium Best 3,900-4,000 3,900-4,000
Gram Dal Medium n.a. n.a.
Gram Mill Quality 3,000-3,100 3,000-3,100
Desi gram Raw 3,100-3,400 3,100-3,400
Gram Filter new 3,300-3,700 3,300-3,700
Gram Kabuli 8,600-9,900 8,600-9,900
Gram Pink 7,300-7,500 7,300-7,500
Tuar Fataka Best 7,700-7,800 7,700-7,800
Tuar Fataka Medium 7,450-7,600 7,450-7,600
Tuar Dal Best Phod 7,000-7,200 7,000-7,200
Tuar Dal Medium phod 6,600-6,800 6,600-6,800
Tuar Gavarani 5,550-5,650 5,500-5,600
Tuar Karnataka 5,800-6,000 5,800-6,000
Tuar Black 8,300-8,700 8,300-8,700
Masoor dal best 7,300-7,500 7,300-7,500
Masoor dal medium 7,000-7,200 7,000-7,200
Masoor n.a. n.a.
Moong Mogar bold 10,500-10,800 10,300-10,600
Moong Mogar Medium best 9,800-10,200 9,700-10,200
Moong dal Chilka 9,500-10,000 9,200-9,800
Moong Mill quality n.a. n.a.
Moong Chamki best 8,300-9,800 8,000 -9,600
Udid Mogar Super best (100 INR/KG) 8,200-8,500 8,000-8,200
Udid Mogar Medium (100 INR/KG) 7,700-7,900 7,600-7,800
Udid Dal Black (100 INR/KG) 6,000-6,200 5,800-6,000
Batri dal (100 INR/KG) 4,300-4,500 4,300-4,500
Lakhodi dal (100 INR/kg) 2,800-3,000 2,800-3,000
Watana Dal (100 INR/KG) 2,900-3,200 2,900-3,200
Watana White (100 INR/KG) 2,900-3,100 2,900-3,100
Watana Green Best (100 INR/KG) 3,850-4,450 3,850-4,450
Wheat 308 (100 INR/KG) 1,300-1,600 1,300-1,600
Wheat Mill quality(100 INR/KG) 1,800-1,900 1,800-1,900
Wheat Filter (100 INR/KG) 1,200-1,400 1,200-1,400
Wheat Lokwan best (100 INR/KG) 2,200-2,500 2,100-2,500
Wheat Lokwan medium (100 INR/KG) 1,950-2,200 1,950-2,200
Lokwan Hath Binar (100 INR/KG) n.a. n.a.
MP Sharbati Best (100 INR/KG) 2,800-3,200 2,800-3,200
MP Sharbati Medium (100 INR/KG) 2,300-2,500 2,300-2,500
Wheat 147 (100 INR/KG) 1,300-1,400 1,300-1,400
Wheat Best (100 INR/KG) 1,550-1,850 1,550-1,850
Rice BPT (100 INR/KG) 3,000-3,300 3,000-3,300
Rice Parmal (100 INR/KG) 1,700-1,800 1,700-1,800
Rice Swarna new (100 INR/KG) 2,400-2,600 2,400-2,600
Rice HMT (100 INR/KG) 3,800-4,200 3,800-4,200
Rice HMT Shriram (100 INR/KG) 4,500-5,300 4,400-5,300
Rice Basmati best (100 INR/KG) 10,000-13,000 10,000-13,000
Rice Basmati Medium (100 INR/KG) 7,000-9,600 7,000-9,600
Rice Chinnor (100 INR/KG) 5,200-5,500 5,100-5,500
Jowar Gavarani (100 INR/KG) 1,900-2,100 1,900-2,100
Jowar CH-5 (100 INR/KG) 2,100-2,300 2,100-2,300
WEATHER (NAGPUR)
Maximum temp. 28.8 degree
Celsius (73.8 degree Fahrenheit), minimum temp.
15.2 degree Celsius (59.4
degree Fahrenheit)
Humidity: Highest - n.a.,
lowest - n.a.
Rainfall : nil
FORECAST: Partly cloudy sky.
Rains or thunder-showers likely towards evening or night. Maximum
and minimum temperature would
be around and 29 and 18 degree Celsius respectively.
Note: n.a.--not available
(For oils, transport costs
are excluded from plant delivery prices, but
included in market prices.)
http://in.reuters.com/article/2014/12/31/nagpur-foodgrain-idINL3N0UF2JO20141231
As of
yesterday… Rice exports total 499,872 tonnes
GUYANA has exported more than 499,872 tons of rice, as of
yesterday, according to Agriculture Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy. And he disclosed that several
other shipments are still to be exported, placing the 500,000 tonnes export
target in closer reach.The actual export target for 2014 was 460,000
tons.“Other shipments are in the port for export. This means that we will
attain another milestone, the first ever time that Guyana has exported 500,000
tons of rice in a single year ,” he said.Dr. Ramsammy stated that the rice
industry’s accomplishments have jettisoned the criticisms of several prominent
members within the combined Opposition’s ranks.“I recall several Opposition
members criticizing me and urging me to curtain the expansion of production,
because ‘we can’t sell so much rice’. But our position was that we stood ready
to support our farmers and millers,” he said.The Minister added that through
Government’s support, the rice market is “ten times” what it was in 1990.
“APNU did not acknowledge and congratulate the industry,
particularly the farmers, for attaining a milestone that many Opposition
members once proclaimed to be impossible – achieving a production of more than
633,000 tonnes of rice for 2014. This production is more than 20 per cent above
last year’s and more than 20 per cent above the 2014 target,” Dr. Ramsammy
said.He highlighted too that, as compared with the combined Opposition, the
ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has repeatedly congratulated
and expressed its profound gratitude to the famers who invest massively in the
rice industry and surpassed expectations and targets.
“Our farmers and millers have achieved way beyond what the
Opposition and many of their friends thought was possible. In 2014, we (the
PPP/C) again express our deepest gratitude to the rice farmers for the work
they have done to continue the upward trajectory in production,” he concluded..
The export mark of 400,000 tonnes was surpassed in mid-October, excluding a
number of contracts for rice exports that still had to be met. The 500,000
tonnes of rice was the 2020 target for production; however, in 2011, for the first
time, the 400,000-tonne mark was passed and this was repeated in 2012 and 2013.
With the new export markets secured in 2014, Guyana’s rice exports are expected
to reach about 550,000 tonnes in 2015
The country currently has export agreements with several countries in the Caribbean, as well as with Venezuela and Panama, among others. Also, arrangements for rice shipments to countries in West Africa are still being finalised.
The country currently has export agreements with several countries in the Caribbean, as well as with Venezuela and Panama, among others. Also, arrangements for rice shipments to countries in West Africa are still being finalised.
The export in 2013 was 394,000 tonnes, from a production of 535,212 tonnes, which was far above the original target of 413,000 tonnes.It is expected that someday Guyana will overcome the barrier to bring it in line with the world’s largest producers of rice. As such, focus is being placed on exploring new and emerging global markets, tackling the crucial and critical issues to facilitate increasing production.
Image:Dr Leslie Ramsammy
Rice industry
stakeholders lament over import allocations, Say scheme will derail self-sufficiency
efforts
Wednesday, 31 December 2014 21:17
Written by EDITOR
RICE industry stakeholders have cried out to the Federal
Government asking that the recent wave of rice import licenses be cancelled
outright before investments made by them in the last four years go down the
drain. In a protest letter written to the government through the ministers
of Finance and Trade and Investments, the stakeholders drew attention to what
they called “the recent indiscriminate and wrongful award of import licenses as
well as concessions to dubious businessmen with absolutely no investments in
the rice sector who are now making millions and billions of naira selling those
licenses to importers in the market” They warned that the current
development in which new comers without experience were favored over and above
operators who are at present investing billions in line with the Agricultural
Transformation Agenda (ATA) threatens their investments.
The allocations, the petitioners said, “provide a free ride for
smugglers, thereby derailing the objectives on rice self-sufficiency. The
country according to reports also stands to lose in excess of N 40 billion
through smuggling and loss of customs revenues.” The Federal Ministry of
Finance stipulated revised lower tariffs for rice imports vide Ministry of
Finance Circular BD/FP/TT/50/I/99 dated July 8th 2014 (entitled 2014-2017
Fiscal Policy Measures On Rice). According to this circular, bonafide
“investors with rice milling capacities and verifiable backward integration
programme” are entitled to import rice at the revised tariffs of 10% duty rate
and 20% levy.
As per the same circular, the pure rice traders (with no existing
capacities/programme) were to pay a duty of 10% and a levy of 60%. However,
the allocations released by the Ministry of Agriculture include several
beneficiaries who do not meet the stipulated criteria issued by the Ministry of
Finance in July 2014. A study of the list of beneficiaries of the
preferential import quotas, reveals that of the 28 companies, only 16 have
mills, while the remaining 12 have no milling capacities but regrettably
account for higher imports than the qualified millers. Investigations
also reveal that many of the companies without any proven capacities have
already started selling off the quotas to pure importers for a handsome margin,
leading to huge loss of customs revenue and defeating the basic purpose of the
allocations.
Genuine bonafide investors and industry players in the rice value
chain are seeking immediate corrective action from the Ministry of Agriculture
through cancellation of allocations and revisions to be effected based on FG’s
circular in July 2014. Industry observers feel the Honorable Minister of
Agriculture may have been misadvised on the track record and qualification of
the beneficiaries, leading to flawed assessment of eligibilities.
Why is the Rice Factories Amendment Act
not being enforced?
DECEMBER 31, 2014 · BY
Dear Editor,
The Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) and the Ministry of
Agriculture must tell the rice farmers why the Rice Factories Amendment Act
which was passed in the National Assembly to protect them from being exploited
by some unscrupulous millers making late payment without interest. The Ministry
of Agriculture cannot fool the farmers all the time. We are a healthy,
intelligent and literate people who are possessed of a wide range of skills and
capable of learning new ones.
I think the Minister should tell us how he would be able to
recover the money loaned to the millers and how he has arrived at the
outstanding payments for rice farmers since GRBD and the Ministry of
Agriculture does not keep records of farmers who have sold paddy to millers,
together with the various grades and prices.At one time I knew that when relief
was given to farmers who lost their crops because of the El Nino effect and the
lack of irrigation water, the acreage was inflated with some ghost farmers on
the payroll who received millions of dollars.
I also think that the GRDB should explain to the taxpayers and
the farmers why the Rice Factories Act of 1992 was never used to penalize
defaulting millers for the non-payment of farmers’ paddy, moisture, short
weight and dockage. I observed that only one miller was targeted under the Rice
Factories Act .The act clearly states that the miller’s licence can be seized
or can be fined or given a jail term for breach of the Act. I am sure that the
millers, GRBD and the Ministry of Agriculture are aware of the clauses and who
signed the agreement. There are many instances where farmers and producers are
exploited to the point of extinction.
The late Dr Cheddi Jagan saw that landlords, money lenders and
unscrupulous millers were the dominant components of the rice industry, when he
assumed office in 1992. Today, although the bill is in force, farmers are owed
enormous sums of money by millers and are being treated like beggars. During
the period 2006-14, there has been no change to protect the rice industry,
particular the rice farmers who are toiling under harsh and back-breaking
conditions of production.
The millers continued to take advantage of the farmers and the
future therefore seems dim for them. The government has not introduced
subsidies on agricultural items although production has skyrocketed. In 2001,
the Governments of Guyana and Brazil conducted bilateral trade negotiations
with a view to enhancing trade in rice between the two countries. This was a
golden opportunity for Guyana’s rice; it was granted a waiver of 15% CXT to
export a maximum of 10,000 metric tons of rice per year for the duration of the
agreement.
It was also granted a waiver of the merchant marine tax, which
was 25% of the value of the freight. It is important to note that these
concessions were granted in good faith. Guyana, instead chose to sell its rice
and paddy to Venezuela under the PetroCaribe deal without these concessions
which would have brought more benefit to the farmers and country as a whole.
Over the years, there has been a general decline in rice and paddy prices on
the Venezuela market.
Presently, Guyana is competing with Asian countries on the
international market for parboiled and white rice market which will add further
pressure on the low prices it received. It is time for Guyana to begin to
examine the avenue to becoming more competitive. The production of fragrant
rice is definitely one of the available avenues.
Yours faithfully,
Mohamed Khan
Mohamed Khan
http://www.stabroeknews.com/2014/opinion/letters/12/31/rice-factories-amendment-act-not-enforced/
JCR-VIS reaffirms entity ratings
of Matco Rice Processing at A-/A-2
December 31, 2014
JCR-VIS Credit Rating Company Limited (JCR-VIS) has reaffirmed the
entity ratings of Pakistan's largest basmati rice exporter, Matco Rice
Processing (Pvt) Limited, at "A-/A-2" (Single A-Minus/ A-Two) with
stable outlook. Despite being a highly competitive market with numerous
international rice brands, rice exports from Pakistan increased by 3.3 percent
in FY14 to US 1.9 billion dollars. Matco
was able to capture a larger share of the same as the company's exports
increased by 25 percent in FY14.
Growth in exports has been achieved due to increased sale of
basmati rice which fetched a better price in the international market compared
to IRRI. Sharing his thought on
the rating, Chairman Matco Rice, Jawed Ali Ghori said, "This rating is yet
another testament of our market leading product quality and reflects upon the
trust of our valued customers. Our management has projected increased margins
and overall profitability in the long-run and relishes the current entity
rating of A-/A-2 by JCR-VIS with an aim to further enhance it in the years to
come." He further added that
"Matco Rice is constantly striving to increase the quality of products by
applying international standards and strengthening rice procurement
procedures.-PR
http://www.brecorder.com/company-news/235/1257734/
China
offers rice cultivation technology to Bangladesh
IANS | 30 Dec, 2014
China
will transfer technology for its indigenous high-yield rice variety to
Bangladesh as part of agricultural cooperation between the two countries, media
reported Monday.Bangladesh Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali said Monday
that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, during his just concluded visit, also talked about taking “necessary steps†for setting up a rice research centre in Bangladesh, bdnews24.com reported.Ali
said Wang's visit was “very successful†as new areas of cooperation emerged, and he believed it
strengthened the existing Dhaka-Beijing relations further.
He
said Bangladesh would need to increase food production on its small arable land
and the transfer of rice cultivating technology by China would help in this.The
Chinese foreign minister's visit was aimed at reviewing the progress of the
commitments both sides made during Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's
Beijing visit in June.It was also aimed at mapping out the details of joint
celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic
ties between the two countries next year when Dhaka expects the Chinese
president to visit the country.The Bangladesh foreign minister said that China
would have 100 young Bangladeshis visiting the country as part of the
celebrations next year.China will finance the $1.2-billion project of building
a tunnel beneath the Karnafuli river.Ali said China has endorsed Bangladesh's vision
of acting as a bridge between south Asia and southeast Asia, given its
strategic geographical location.
China
assured Bangladesh of helping it to become a member of the Shanghai Cooperation
Organisation (SCO) and Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).Both sides also
agreed to work closely during next year's multi-lateral discussions for
adopting a post-2015 development agenda and during climate change talks.They
stressed on the need for quick implementation of the proposed Bangladesh,
China, India and Myanmar (BCIM) economic corridor.
China
has proposed to initiate free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations to narrow down
the trade imbalance, the Bangladesh foreign minister said.Ali said Wang termed
Bangladesh an “important neighbour†and stressed on bilateral cooperation to strengthen the
relations.Five priority areas of cooperation -- trade, agriculture, industry,
energy and infrastructure -- were identified.China welcomed Bangladesh's
proposal of forming a joint working group on trade and industry and a bilateral
investment forum.
The
issue of the specialised economic trade zone that Bangladesh offered to China
during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit was also discussed.Wang reportedly
said that Chinese companies were eager to relocate factories to Bangladesh.He
promised Chinese cooperation in setting up power plants and exploring oil and
gas in Bangladesh.Hasina, during her meeting with Wang Sunday, said her
government was inclined to strengthen strategic ties with China and would
follow the Asian giant as its development model.“Bangladesh will follow China
as the development model. China's development means development of Asia. The
two countries can attain the goal of poverty eradication through mutual
assistance,†Hasina's press
secretary A.K.M. Shamim Chowdhury quoted the prime minister as saying.
Source with thanks: http://www.smetimes.in/smetimes/news/global-business/2014/Dec/30/china-offers-rice-cultivation-technology-to-bangladesh707540.html#sthash.BkKJDrwU.dpuf
Calendars,
our native birds (common, resident, migratory, rare and threatened), and our
environment’
CROSSROADS (Toward Philippine Economic and Social Progress) By
Gerardo P. Sicat (The Philippine Star) | Updated December 31, 2014 - 12:00am
As
we are still enjoying the holidays, I deviate from very serious topics and
discuss a pleasurable subject. Given the proper frame of mind, it is also
integral to our social and cultural development as a nation.“A calendar of
birds in the rice fields of IRRI’s experiment station.” In the course of my
efforts to learn more about rice culture and policies, I met Dr. Bruce
Tolentino, former agriculture department official, and now, one of the senior
managers at the IRRI (International Rice Research Institute).After a long
discussion on agriculture and new developments concerning rice, he gave me a
packet of information on rice issues. Along with this was a wall calendar of
Philippine birds. From the moment I saw this calendar, I knew I would write
about it for a holiday respite. Now is the time.
It was a calendar for 2014, the year
just ending. I certainly hope that they have another version of this calendar
for the coming year. The calendar – Feathers in the Fields: The Birds of IRRI –
features the birds found roaming the rice research experimental fields of the
institution in Los Banos, Laguna.The calendar is very beautifully composed.
Great text, astounding close-up photos of Philippine birds in their usual
surroundings, erudite brief essays and scientific information that birdwatchers
catalogue for all.
“Learning more about birds through
the calendar.” The calendar has a very careful organization. Learners and
simply curious persons will find very valuable information about birds from it.
These are the birds that visit our rice fields.
Business ( Article MRec ),
pagematch: 1, sectionmatch: 1
The
IRRI stations have rice plantings throughout the year and some plots have
different phases of the season for planting. So the bird population that visit
these stations (native and migratory) could be more numerous than the common
rice fields that are part of our agricultural activities in the country.The
birds that are featured are the product of exceptional photography taken for
each of the twelve months of the year. For each month, there is a full-size
picture of a bird in a natural habitat, a second much smaller but different
picture of the same bird is placed alongside the brief essay concerning the
month.
The
calendar has a centerfold that contains a whole spread of more than 60 cut-up
of photographs of the birds found in the IRRI fields. These birds are further
referenced in a separate page through a table that explains their common names
alongside their scientific. Twelve additional columns depicting the months of
the year are attached to this table indicating when the bird was likely to be found
in the IRRI fields.
Bird
watcher Paul Bourdin, who is associated with the Brent International School,
charted all the birds for the twelve months of the year. Richard Smedley, a
doctoral student of bird ecology, tracked down many of the characteristics of
the birds found and wrote a thoughtful essay on the birds of IRRI.The
photography is amazing and was undertaken by two dedicated enthusiasts. Tirso
Paris, of UP Los Baños with a sound academic record in Economics, contributed
most of the bird photos and Fred Serrano, an undersecretary of agriculture.
Telephoto
lenses and high speed photography can do wonders, but this has to combine with
the craftsman’s astute preparation, patience, and attitude. I nominate the
photographers to do more bird work for the National Geographic magazine!
The calendar devotes two full pages
to a month and gives more information on the days of the week in which four
species of birds – with alternative smaller photos included – could be expected
to visit during the month. Such use of information invites greater interest for
the reader to savour, and not only for the bird enthusiast and naturalist.“Scanty
literature on birds and nature on the Philippines.” The photo collection and
the textual information presented in the calendar reminds me about the scanty
literature on Philippine birds and indeed on a lot of other important natural
phenomena in our country.
We ought to have more publications,
including illustrations, of our country’s flora and fauna. In the case of birds,
we do have information but not enough. They should also be attractively
presented. It is as if we are oblivious of the beauty in our midst and of the
generous bounty of nature.I have travelled to many countries and places in my
long career. A mild curiosity about nature always brought me to bookstores. On
the matter of birds, there are popular books galore in other countries but not
here.
We should build that wealth of
knowledge. If it cannot be built fast, a sure and certain outcome is an arduous
and sustained effort through the years.Way back during the 1970s I purchased a
book from a major Chicago Museum on Philippine birds. It was a storehouse of
information on the subject with many illustrations. I did not have the good
luck to locate it while preparing this essay.From notices, I have learned that
a modern and up-to-date book on Philippine birds was recently published. This
is A Guide to the Birds of the Philippines, by Robert S. Kennedy, Pedro C.
Gonzales, Edward Dickinson, Hector C. Miranda Jr. and Timothy H. Fisher (Oxford
University Press, 2000).
The book provides a detailed
description of 572 species of birds that have been found in the Philippines.
This book contributes to the identification of 172 endemic species found
uniquely in the country and testifies to the country’s wide range of biological
diversity in the case of birds.
“Birdwatchers and the Internet
expand the documentation of Philippine birds.” Though there are few truly good
books on Philippine birds for popular use, luckily there is today an active and
growing society of bird watchers who have filled the internet with pictures and
illustrations of Philippine birds.
I have tracked down some addresses,
or links. For those interested, try to google “Philippine birds” or “field guide
of Philippine birds.”For me, the most interesting sights include the website of
the Philippine Society of Bird Watchers and the website featuring the country’s
endangered bird species. I recommend these as they contain a wide variety of
illustrations from photographs of birds caught by camera in the wild.
A happy new year to All!
My email is: gpsicat@gmail.com.
Visit this site for more information, feedback and commentary: http://econ.upd.edu.ph/gpsicat/
Nigeria:
Maritime Sector Records Mixed Fortunes in 2014
By Moses Ebosele
AS
2014 grind to a halt today, stakeholders in the maritime sector are
re-strategising on how to improve on their performances in 2015.For key players
in the sector, the outgoing year was characterized with mixed blessings.Indeed,
right from the beginning of the year, agitations for necessary policies and
need for infrastructural development took the centre stage of activities.It was
also an opportunity for the Government to explain through agencies such as
Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Shippers' Council (NSC), National
Inland Water Authority (NIWA), Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety
Agency (NIMASA) efforts being made to sustain growth in the sector.
Within
the outgoing year, the expectations of indigenous ship owners for the
disbursement of Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) were dashed.But, the
Director-General of NIMASA, Dr Patrick Akpobolokemi said the agency is awaiting
Federal Government's approval to commence disbursement of the fund.Akpobolokemi
said: "We have made recommendation to government. Government is studying
the proposals. Government at the appropriate time will give the blessing and
once they do that, we will distribute this money. We can only make
recommendations".
During
the year, NIMASA sustained its capacity building initiatives with the
establishment of a Maritime University, Kurutie and Dockyard in Okerenkoko in
Delta State among others. About 2,500 seafarers according to NIMASA have so far
benefited from its training programme in maritime institutions in Egypt, United
Kingdom, among other locations.Worried by reported accidents along Nigeria's waterways,
NIWA within the year intensified its safety campaigns at strategic locations.
NIWA
within the year extended ongoing nationwide safety awareness campaign to Rivers
and Bayelsa States.Already, the agency has visited nupeka and malale in Niger
State, Igbokoda in Ondo State and Lagos State.The awareness campaign is aimed
at ensuring safety for Nigerians who use waterways to commute from one part of
the country to another.NIWA's General Manager, Public Affairs, Tayo Fadile
explained that the nationwide programme is designed to sensitise Nigerians
living around coastal areas.
He
explained that the programme involves safety talk, distribution of life
jackets, campaign shirts and other safety items free of charge.Also speaking at
the 2014 stakeholders' Conference on the economic use of the Onitsha River
Port, Managing Director of NIWA, Hajia Maryam Ciroma explained that a safety
Code is long overdue.Ciroma explained that the Code would also serve as a
guide, law on the use of the waterways for operators.She explained that the
need to regulate the use of the nation's waterways can-not be overemphasised
considering the security challenges that have been facing the nation in recent
times.Stakeholders who spoke at the event urged the Federal Government to come
up with legal and administrative framework that will help bring to light the
enabling environment that will encourage businesses to thrive at the Onitsha
River Port.
The
conference also adopted the following resolutions:
·
Commended the federal government for the huge investment expended on the
dredging of the Lower River Niger and the successful completion of the Onitsha
River port to facilitate inter-modal transport system for evacuation of both
cargoes and passengers in view of the economic advantages;
·
Urged the federal government to guarantee safety through an effective
round-the-clock patrol by joint Military Personnel and application of other
safety measures to safeguard lives and property;
·Recommended
that the federal government come up with legal and administrative frame work
that will help bring to light the enabling environment that will encourage
businesses to thrive at the Onitsha River Port;
·Urged
the Federal Government to hasten the setting-up of the administrative delivery
team with members drawn from various related organisations for the quick
takeoff of operations at the River Port;
·
Noted the importance of synergy between the federal government and the Private
Sector under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) and encourage re-doubling of
efforts at concessioning of the River Port.
·
Emphasised the need for constant upgrading of Maritime and Port infrastructure
to enable the investors take optimal advantage of Anambra State's expansive
coastline in areas of shipbuilding, Dockyard Operations, Metal fabrication,
dock labour, warehousing and recycling plants, among others.
The
present management of NPA pledged to focus and "consistent in its effort
to achieve its vision to be the Leading Port in Africa by rehabilitating port
infrastructure, engaging in constant dredging of the channels and
implementation of sound financial policies like the E-payment solution among
others".Another highlight within the year was Nigeria Customs Service
(NCS) successful take over from service providers. The management of NCS
subsequently introduced the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR).
The
agency also within the year acquired Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC) and
fine-tuned its security strategy as part of measures to successfully tackle
rice smuggling and nefarious activities.Under the new approach, the NCS is to
place more emphasis on intelligence gathering, security of its personnel and
"take the battle to the door steps of smugglers".In a chat with The
Guardian during a raid on some smuggling route in Igbesa, Ogun State recently,
the Controller, Federal Operations Units (FOU), zone 'A', Ikeja, Usman Turaki
reiterated the resolve of NCS to curtail smuggling inline with the policy
thrust of the Federal Government.
Turaki,
who led the operations comprising of the Army, Nigerian Navy (NN), Nigeria Security
and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDS) and use of about 48 pick-up, two newly acquired
Armoured Personal Carrier (APC) described smuggling as "economic
crime" that must be tackled in the interest of the nation's economy.During
the operation carried out in the early hours of Tuesday September 23, 2014, the
unit uncovered smugglers hideout in a Creek at Igbesan, Ogun State which
according to NCS is notorious for rice smuggling.
At
the end of the clampdown, which lasted for more than seven hours, 11,264 bags
of imported 50kg foreign parboiled rice smuggled into the country through
unapproved routes were seized.The contraband, according to the unit is valued
at N56.3million with a Payable Duty of N39.4million and a Duty Paid Value (DPV)
of N95.7million.Inspecting the seized commodities in the creek of Igbesan in
Ogun State, Turaki explained that the seizure were effected by Lagos Roving
Team operations headed by AC Adamu Abubakar Mohammed and other officers/men of
the unit.
According
to Turaki, several efforts to raid the location in the past faced stiff
resistance from the smugglers, adding that the area is inaccessible especially
for Customs and "several attempts to raid the place in the past was met
with shift opposition from the hostile smugglers".He added: "We must
place on record that they (smugglers) had in the past attacked Customs patrol
teams that attempted in the past to stop their nefarious activities. It is
therefore not surprising to see the renewed vigour and dexterity of the FOU 'A'
operations particularly the Lagos roving team led by AC Adamu Abubakar
Mohammed.
"On
arrival at the scene of crime, we started evacuation, even though we faced
challenge of unmotorable terrain. On completion of evacuation, we destroyed the
instrumentality of crime that is the wooden boats, their storage facilities,
and out board engines among others. This is aimed at frustrating their future
attempts".He said the FOU had to roll out its Armoured Personnel Carrier
(APC) for the operations in view of the volatile nature of the terrain.
Accompanied
by senior officers from the unit, Turaki said: "These tanks were rolled
out with the express permission of the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC),
Abdullahi Dikko Inde who clearly understands the nature of such assignment."The
Lagos Roving Team met stiff opposition from the smugglers, hence the need for
reinforcement from the neighbouring Commands of Ogun and Seme, as well as the
Military, NSCDC, Navy and others who provided Security for the evacuation of
the consignment.
"The
rampaging smugglers were contained by our operatives who brought the
experiences from their various trainings to bare. Even though the smugglers
engaged our operatives in a shootout, the combined team of our operatives over
powered them with their superior fire power".Turaki also accused some rice
millers of allegedly aiding the activities and operations of smugglers, adding
that he is in possession of document linking some local rice millers to the
illegal business.
He
said: "As soon as the seizures are made, rice millers come forward
immediately claiming ownership of the smuggled products. What they do is import
small quantity of a particular product through the port. After getting the
small quantity to their warehouse, they use smuggler as carrier to bring in large
quantities through unapproved routes thereby depriving the Federal Government
of revenue".
He
added: "Our investigation reveal that the smuggled rice are taken to their
warehouse and immediately mixed with the small quantity imported through the
ports. As I speak, we are in possession of appeal letters from rice millers
claiming ownership of smuggled rice. They will do everything possible to get
smugglers out of the hook. They smugglers are working for them. The rice are
smuggled from cotonu, Benin Republic, through a mother ship".
Conducting
Journalists round a "mini terminal", creek and eight seized boats
with engines, Turaki said the smugglers shot some Customs personnel, "Loot
at the impact of the bullets on our vehicles. No life was lost. The officers
subsequently called for reinforcement. We are grateful to the Army and Nigerian
Navy for the support".Explaining in details the operations of the rice
smugglers, Turaki alleged that the products are pushed into the Nigerian market
through some local millers, "From Igbesa in Ogun State, the product are
moved by boat to Alaba and later by trucks to Daleko and other parts of the
country.
Turaki
also used the opportunity to commend the CGC and his management teams for the
support, pointing out that the officers/men of the unit are determined to take
the war against smuggling to the "deadliest and most volatile parts of the
South West".He attributed what he identified as the 'new zeal' and passion
of the officers to the welfare programmes "which provides for
motivation/remuneration, training and re-training, provision of functional
patrol vehicles, arms/ammunition and the general well being of the officers/men
of the Service".
Turaki
pledged the commitment of the unit to sustain its present anti-smuggling tempo
during and after the end of year festivities.He expressed optimism with the
capacity and competence of the officers/men of FOU 'A' to tackle the hydra
headed monster of smuggling."As daunting as the challenge of suppressing
smuggling may be, we will continue to face it with unrelenting determination
and will remain resolute in our attempt to suppress it to the barest minimum.
The relentless commitment and tireless effort of officers and men of this unit
is quite commendable," he saidThe Controller noted that some smuggling
flashpoints have been identified along the creeks and other illegal routes and
promised that very intensive and aggressive patrol activities would be mounted
in those areas in order to nip the activities of smugglers in the bud.
He
called on Nigerians to always avail the unit with relevant information that
could lead to the tracking of smugglers while also promising that the identity
of such patriotic informants would be treated with utmost secrecy. He advised
those who engage in acts of smuggling to have a rethink as the Service has zero
tolerance for such unpatriotic act and promised that genuine importers or their
agents will continue to enjoy the support of the NCS in line with its mandate
of facilitating legitimate trade.Meanwhile, stakeholders have repeatedly urged
the Federal Government to review the 100 per cent duty on rice and 10 per cent
levy as part of measures to make smuggling of the commodities unattractive.
For
example, terminal operators argued recently that between January and March this
year,the current tariff regime on rice may have cost the nation over N380
billion in revenue.Indeed, no fewer than 150 Nigerian bound ships laden with an
estimated 600,000 tonnes of rice were allegedly diverted to the ports of
Cameroon, Benin Republic,Ghana and Togo.Under the aegis of Seaport Terminal
Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN),who gave the loss estimate, blamed the
development on the 100 per cent duty and 10 per cent levy imposed on rice by
the Federal Government in 2013
Chairman
of STOAN, Princess Vicky Haastrup, described the situation as unfortunate and
worrisome.Haastrup said: "This is becoming rather unfortunate. Our economy
is bleeding seriously because of this policy. The loss to other countries, as a
result of the high tariff on rice was over N300 billion last year while in the
first quarter of this year alone, both government and private sector operators
have lost at least N80 billion.
"Even
the Federal Government, through the Minister of Finance and Coordinating
Minister of the Economy, Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, admitted the shortcoming of
this policy. The truth is that the policy has done more harm than good to our
economy and government should waste no further time before reversing it."According
to her, revenues affected by the 110 per cent rice policy include those that
should have accrued to the Nigeria Customs Service, terminal operators,
dockworkers and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
Haastrup
also disagreed with those who blame Customs for the high rate of smuggling of
rice into Nigeria.A press statement quoted Haastrup as saying that "it is
totally wrong to blame Customs. Customs is doing its very best under the
circumstance to check smuggling of rice into the country and that can be seen
from the numerous seizures they make every day."The fact of the matter is
that the policy cannot work. Even if you place heavily armed Customs officers
in every corner of our borders, it won't stop smuggling. It is a fact that
local production cannot match local demand, which creates a recipe for
smuggling. There is a lot of pressure on Customs because the quantity of rice
manufactured locally can only satisfy 30 per cent of local demand. It is easy
to point accusing fingers but I believe Customs officers are giving their best."And
don't forget that our neighbouring countries are profiting from the policy by
dropping their own tariffs on rice and because they are benefitting, they give
tacit support to these smugglers," the STOAN Chairman said.
Also
within the outgoing year, terminal operators gragged the Nigeria Shippers
Council (NSC) to court over charges and lost. The operators have since
indicated their resolve to appeal the court judgment.Indeed, NSC Executive
Secretary, Hassan Bello recently announced plan by the council to lead clamour
for the review of port concession agreement in 2015.Unveiling the council's
agenda for 2015 in a chat with The Guardian, Bello said there is need to review
the concession agreement signed in 2006.According to Bello, strategic
stakeholders such as Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Bureau of Public
Enterprises (BPE), Terminal Operators, shippers and other stakeholders are
expected to hold series of meetings next year aimed at repositioning the
sector.
While
commending the Federal Government for the success recorded in the outgoing year
in the sector, Bello said legal framework for regulation which are modern are
underway, adding that it would be pursued vigorously by the NSC in 2015.Already,
Bello said NSC has engaged the services of three international consultants to
look bat Shippers Council internally, "look at the process of cargo
clearance and look at tariff and efficiency and competition".Bello, who
spoke on sundry issues said: "NSC is also in term with Manufacturers
Association of Nigeria (MAN), NACCIMA and other association".
He
said the appointment of NSC as economic regulator is attracting more volume of
cargoes into the country, pointing out that "We are attracting cargoes
from competitors. Physical barriers are being removed. We are talking with
land-locked countries on shipment of cargoes. The process will start in 2015
with the shipment of cheminals on behalf of one of the landlocked countries
through our port".
NSC
according to the Executive Secretary is working with the International Maritime
Organisation (IMO) through facilitation committee.On the NSC performance in
2014 especially in the area of dispute resolution, Bello said: "We have
pile of letters commending NSC.We have a rapid response unit".Bello also
used the opportunity to commend staff of NSC and all stakeholders who in one
way or the other contributed to the success it recorded in the outgoing year,
adding that more activities expected to reshape the sector in 2015 are
underway.
Bello,
also explained in details benefits of the Council's role to stakeholders and
the larger economy.The Council according to him is adequately prepared to
assume its new role, adding that "This is what we have been doing even
with weak laws".Explaining further ,Bello said:"We have the pedigree.
We have the capacity. Over the years, Nigerian Shippers' Council has developed
capacity.
I
don't think there is any agency in the transport industry that will have the
qualification of staff of the Shippers Council as far as commercial shipping is
concerned. We have had people trained in transport economy. We have port
operators. We have logistics and don't forget, Shippers Council is an economic
institution. The first Managing Director of Shippers Council came from the
Central Bank. All the past Chief Executive of Shippers Councils have developed
the institution. It is a versatile institution. It is an economic institution.
The orientation, the culture of staff of Nigeria Shippers Council has made it
most qualified and the most equipped to handle this very important
assignment".
According
to Bello, there is the urgent need to satisfy clamour by Nigerians for
efficiency is the delivery of Cargoes especially when compared with other
jurisdiction.
Bello
said: "The private sector is the engine room that will propel reforms in
this sector. We need some economic regulations. Economic regulations simply
means the government will have its eyes and ears in tariff and issues like
competition. The idea is to prevent monopoly. We cannot replace public monopoly
with private monopoly. There must be competition. Government must also be very
serious about the entry and exit in the sector.
"The
issue of regulation is not new to Nigerian Shippers' Council. The section 3 of
Nigerian Shippers Council Act provides that the council should be the government
eye especially in the area of freight rate, availability and adequacy of
shipping space, terms of shipment, class and quality of vessels, port changes
and facilities and other related matters. That in itself is economic
regulation."But, this law was made when Nigeria Port Authority (NPA) was
the one handling Cargo.
Global Rice Quotes
December
31st, 2014
Long grain
white rice - high quality
Thailand
100% B grade 420-430 ↔
Vietnam 5%
broken 380-390 ↔
India 5%
broken 385-395 ↔
Pakistan 5%
broken 380-390 ↔
Cambodia 5%
broken 460-470 ↔
U.S. 4%
broken 510-520 ↔
Uruguay 5%
broken 595-605 ↔
Argentina 5%
broken 595-605 ↔
Long grain
white rice - low quality
Thailand 25%
broken NQ ↔
Vietnam 25%
broken 350-360 ↔
Pakistan 25%
broken 335-345 ↔
Cambodia 25%
broken 435-445 ↔
India 25%
broken 350-360 ↔
U.S. 15%
broken 495-505 ↔
Long grain
parboiled rice
Thailand
parboiled 100% stxd 405-415 ↔
Pakistan
parboiled 5% broken stxd 405-415 ↔
India
parboiled 5% broken stxd 375-385 ↔
U.S.
parboiled 4% broken 580-590 ↔
Brazil
parboiled 5% broken 570-580 ↔
Uruguay parboiled 5% broken NQ
↔
Long grain
fragrant rice
Thailand
Hommali 92% 895-905 ↔
Vietnam
Jasmine 510-520 ↔
India
basmati 2% broken NQ ↔
Pakistan
basmati 2% broken NQ ↔
Cambodia
Phka Mails 805-815 ↔
Brokens
Thailand A1
Super 330-340 ↔
Vietnam 100%
broken 330-340 ↔
Pakistan
100% broken stxd 305-315 ↔
Cambodia A1
Super 385-395 ↔
India 100%
broken stxd 295-305 ↔
Egypt medium
grain brokens NQ ↔
U.S. pet
food 390-400 ↔
Brazil half
grain NQ ↔
All prices
USD per ton, FOB vessel, oryza.com
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